hemstitch

1 of 2

verb

hem·​stitch ˈhem-ˌstich How to pronounce hemstitch (audio)
hemstitched; hemstitching; hemstitches
Synonyms of hemstitchnext

transitive verb

: to decorate (something, such as a border) with hemstitch
hemstitcher noun

hemstitch

2 of 2

noun

1
: decorative needlework similar to drawnwork that is used especially on or next to the stitching line of hems
2
: a stitch used in hemstitching

Illustration of hemstitch

Illustration of hemstitch

Examples of hemstitch in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Verb
Peruse signature lines of linens, pillows, duvet covers, and hemstitch sheets as well as This Works bath and body products, scented candles, decorative pillows and fluffy robes. — Necee Regis, BostonGlobe.com, 3 Mar. 2021

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

1839, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1853, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of hemstitch was in 1839

Rhymes for hemstitch

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Browse Nearby Words

hempy
hemstitch
hen
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Cite this Entry

“Hemstitch.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hemstitch. Accessed 28 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

hemstitch

1 of 2 verb
hem·​stitch ˈhem-ˌstich How to pronounce hemstitch (audio)
: to embroider fabric by drawing out parallel threads and stitching the exposed threads in groups to form designs
hemstitcher noun

hemstitch

2 of 2 noun
1
: decorative needlework
2
: a stitch used in hemstitching

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